By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Sheikh Abu Bakarr Kamara has been detained by the Sierra Leone Police after being invited for questioning at the Bo Police Division, following a controversial video circulating on social media. Reports confirm that the Islamic cleric spent the night in police custody and is expected to be transferred to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) headquarters in Freetown later today for further investigation.
According to police sources, Sheikh Kamara is being investigated over a trending video in which he reportedly warned Muslims against celebrating Christmas or accepting gifts from Christians during the festive season. In the video, he stated that any Muslim who celebrates Christmas or receives Christmas gifts will “eventually go to hell,” a message that triggered widespread debate and raised concerns about religious tension and national unity.
The video, which quickly spread across Facebook, WhatsApp, and TikTok, generated reactions from both Islamic and Christian communities, many of whom expressed shock, disappointment, and concern about its potential to undermine decades of interfaith cohesion in Sierra Leone. The country is known for its strong culture of religious harmony, where families often practice mixed-faith traditions and both Muslims and Christians freely celebrate each other’s major holidays.
Police officials say the cleric was invited to clarify the intent and implications of his statements. A security source in Bo noted that the decision to detain Sheikh Kamara overnight was based on legal processing and the need to determine whether his comments violated national laws relating to hate speech, incitement, or public disorder. The CID in Freetown is expected to continue the investigation and decide whether formal charges will be filed.
Community observers say the incident has once again highlighted the growing influence of social media and how religious messages can spread rapidly and spark public reaction. Civil society organizations monitoring peace and religious tolerance have urged the public to remain calm, avoid inciteful commentary online, and allow law enforcement institutions to conduct their investigation.
Meanwhile, discussions around the video continue online, where some supporters of the cleric argue that he was practicing his right to preach according to his beliefs. Others, however, believe his remarks crossed a line, warning that such statements risk dividing communities and contradict Sierra Leone’s long-standing reputation for peaceful coexistence.
As the investigation continues, many await the outcome of his transfer to Freetown. Religious leaders and community elders are also expected to weigh in on the matter, with national stakeholders calling for messages of peace and unity during the ongoing festive season.
